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Types of Quinoa Plants

Gardening Guide: The Easy Quinoa Growing Guide: Your Complete Guide to Growing, Harvesting, Cooking, and Eating the Mother of All Grains

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Types of Quinoa Plants

By Norann Oleson

Red quinoa plants

Red quinoa plants

Quinoa comes in three main types: black, red, and white. Black-seeded varieties tend to remain very gritty when cooked, though they have an earthier, sweeter taste. Red quinoa is usually used in salads because it holds its shape better during the cooking process. White quinoa seeds and leaves are much better suited to cooking—this is the type most commonly found in the grocery store.

Black quinoa is harder than other types, so it usually takes a bit longer to cook. Not surprisingly, black quinoa has more fiber than red or white types, but the protein levels in all quinoa is basically the same. Black quinoa tastes slightly sweeter and earthier than red or white. It works well in salads, stews, or any dish that calls for some crunch. Black quinoa can be more difficult to find in grocery stores, so if you like it, it makes sense to grow your own.

Red quinoa has a hardier texture than white quinoa, but is not as gritty as black quinoa. Its texture holds up well to cooking and has a pronounced nutty flavor, making it perfect for cold salads and grain bowls. Red quinoa stays red after cooking, so you can use it to add color, as well as taste and nutrition, to a dish.

White quinoa is the most common type of quinoa. Despite its name, white quinoa is often buff, yellow, or even tan in color. White quinoa has a milder flavor than other quinoas and is softer, so it cooks up lighter and fluffier than red or black varieties. Choose white quinoa when you want a rice substitute, in breakfast bowls, or in baked goods.

Have you tried growing different types of quinoa? Which do you prefer and why? Please share your opinion.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Curator’s Corner
  • Introduction
  • Feature Articles

  • Types of Quinoa Plants
  • A Word About Varieties of Quinoa Plants
  • Choosing to Grow Quinoa from Seeds or Seedlings
  • Growing Quinoa in Open Land, in Containers, or in Raised Beds
  • Starting with the Right Soil for Your Quinoa Plants
  • The Right Sunlight for Your Quinoa
  • Should You Fertilize Your Quinoa Plants?
  • How—and When—to Water Your Quinoa Plants
  • How to Spot, Treat, and Prevent Quinoa Diseases
  • What to Do About Pests that Can Harm Your Quinoa Plants
  • The Right Way to Weed Your Quinoa Garden
  • Essential Tools and Equipment for Growing Quinoa
  • Plant Profiles

  • Oro De Valle Organic White (Golden) Quinoa
  • Red Head Organic White Quinoa
  • French Vanilla White Quinoa
  • Shelly Black Quinoa
  • Biobio White Quinoa
  • Brightest Brilliant Rainbow Red Quinoa
  • Recipes

  • Quinoa, Brussels Sprouts, and Strawberry Salad
  • Garlic Mushroom Quinoa
  • Autumn Apple, Kale, and Quinoa Salad
  • Indian-Spiced Quinoa
  • Quinoa Tabbouleh with Feta
  • Mexican Quinoa Wraps
  • Cinna-Vanilla Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
  • Quinoa Bowl with Shrimp
  • Additional Articles

  • Nutrition Facts about Quinoa
  • Home Remedies & Health Benefits of Quinoa
  • Resources about Quinoa
  • Quinoa Glossary
  • Related Articles

  • Three Types of Quinoa You Can Grow at Home

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